Pendleton vs Portland: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Pendleton, OR and Portland, OR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pendleton, OR | Portland, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,607 | $115,530▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $52.21 | $55.55▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,299 | $88,106▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $91,182 | $102,854▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $123,443 | $132,525▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,007 | $135,740▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 730▲ |
Verdict
Portland, OR offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Pendleton.
The salary gap between Pendleton and Portland is $6,923 (6.37%). Portland's median is +11.73% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Pendleton spans $48,708,Portland spans $47,634. Pendleton has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Portland ($109,589 effective) pays 3.53% more than Pendleton ($105,855 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Pendleton if…
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Choose Portland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($115,530/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,740)
- ✓Larger job market (730 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,589)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Pendleton grew 11.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.5% growth in Portland over the same period.
Pendleton, OR
$94,619 (2024) → $105,382 (2025)
Portland, OR
$93,820 (2019) → $112,100 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pendleton, OR
Portland, OR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Pendleton or Portland?
What is the hourly rate difference between Pendleton and Portland?
Should I relocate from Pendleton to Portland as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Pendleton vs Portland?
Written by Jordan Miller, OTR/L
Career Analyst
Jordan has 10 years of experience in occupational therapy. They specialize in pediatrics and work in a rehabilitation clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.06% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Miller, OTR/L, a licensed occupational therapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov